Microwaves that don't have inverter technology have to switch between using 100 per cent and 0 per cent power when you choose 50 per cent power, whereas a microwave with inverter technology uses 50 per cent power the entire time so your food is more evenly defrosted and cooked.
The main difference between conventional and convection microwaves is their heating elements. Traditional microwaves cook food using electromagnetic waves, while convection microwaves have an additional heating element and fan to circulate heat throughout the cavity.
The most common types of microwaves include built-in, over-the-range, countertop, undercounter, wall oven and microwave combination, smart and convection microwaves.
"A convection microwave has an element and a fan, as well as a top element for grilling. Because of this, it can be used as a microwave, an oven, or a grill. You can also use it in combination mode, which combines the microwave with either the bake or grill functions to reduce the cooking time," she says.
The most notable disadvantage of convection microwaves is their inability to bake some items as well as standard ovens. For example, biscuits baked in a traditional oven have a better texture than those baked in convection microwaves.
While solo microwaves are the more affordable choice, if you are after increased cooking capabilities, combination microwaves are undoubtedly a savvy investment. Generally, they will use less electricity than traditional ovens because they heat a smaller space.
A convection microwave can perform all the functions of a solo microwave, but also has additional features. Convection microwaves can grill, bake, roast, brown and even crisp foods. If you rely on your microwave for more than just simple reheating, then the convection option is the one for you.
Convection microwaves are ideal for any situation where installing or using a standard oven isn't viable. For instance, if you have a small space yet love to cook, a convection microwave is ideal. And if you routinely cook large meals with lots of sides, a convection microwave provides extra cooking space.
Use your convection microwave setting when cooking items for a longer period of time. Examples include roasted meats and vegetables, baked goods, bacon, pizza and other items that should be browned or crisped.
In contrast, convection oven technology uses a fan to force air movement and heat up the full interior of the microwave to cook food from the inside out. That's why you can use convection microwaves to bake and roast things that would otherwise be cooked too quickly (and not thoroughly) with just a regular microwave.
According to LG, "Inverter technology enables more precise temperature control to help defrost foods and avoid overcooked and unthawed areas." Some of the top performing models in our microwaves review have inverter technology, however, there are some recommended conventional microwaves that perform just as well.
Metal is safe to use in a microwave!
Not only is it safe to use, metal can also enhance your cooking experience when microwaving your favourite dishes.
Models with more watts typically have more cooking power, but differences of 100 watts or so don't matter much. All the microwaves in our tests have a minimum of 700 watts; models with higher wattages provide faster and more even cooking.
25L Microwave
A step up from the standard size, these spacious microwaves are perfect for larger families. You'll typically find grill and combination microwave ovens with this capacity as more space allows for more functionality.
A microwave can be expected to last anywhere from five to 10 years, with an average lifespan of nine years, according to the NAHB.
In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.
To roast the chicken in the microwave oven, press COMBINATION setting 3 times. Turn the dial and set the cooking time to 75 minutes. Press START/SET to begin cooking. Baste the chicken with its own juice every 15 minutes.
Line the combi microwave metal plate with foil and parchment paper. Arrange the potato wedges so they are not covering each other up. Cook on combi microwave setting for 20 minutes at 210c + simmer microwave setting, finish on grill setting for 4-5 minutes to brown them off a little more if you wish.
Because the fan blows air around the inside of the oven, moist foods prone to shifting or splattering (like quick breads, custards, and other baked goods) can come out dry and unevenly baked. Sometimes cookies or cakes will show a "sand drift" pattern from the moving air.